A unique string of letters and numbers created by running data through a cryptographic function. Hashes are used to secure data, link blocks together, and verify transactions on a blockchain.

A significant and non-backward-compatible change to a blockchain’s protocol that creates a permanent split in the network, resulting in two separate blockchains if participants do not all upgrade to the new rules.

A term originating from crypto culture meaning to “hold on for dear life,” regardless of short-term market volatility. It reflects a belief in the asset’s long-term value rather than frequent trading.

The speed at which a blockchain network or miner processes hashes. A higher hash rate generally means greater network security and more computing power supporting the blockchain.

A digital wallet that is connected to the internet. Hot wallets are convenient for frequent transactions but are generally less secure than cold wallets.

A numbering system that uses 16 characters (0–9 and A–F). Hexadecimal is commonly used in blockchain addresses and hashes to represent large numbers in a compact format.